Global Competition Research Articles

Global Digital Transformation and New Venture Resilience

In the new situation of building an entrepreneurial ecosystem, faced with the global multi-agent competition of the system, how new ventures should integrate with the system, isomorphism, and use their own advantages to cultivate new venture resilience has become an important global issue. The purpose of this study is to explore the combined impact of digital transformation, entrepreneurial ecological orientation, and organizational structure on the resilience of new ventures. Based on qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), this study systematically explores the significant key conditions and configuration effects that affect the cultivation of new venture resilience. There are four types of configurations that help new ventures to cultivate resilience, namely: strategic change, flexible response, leadership niche and institutional logic. This study explores how these three dimensions interact to achieve high firm resilience, ultimately contributing to the research of resilience from the perspective of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Timing and experience in global markets: unraveling the impact of servitization on new manufacturing venture survival

AbstractThe emergence of global competition and advances in technology have prompted manufacturing firms to reshape their competitive strategies in global markets. Servitization is an innovative strategy, which integrates services into traditional products to offer both domestic and international customers greater value added. In the context of international entrepreneurship and drawing on the resource-based view and internationalization perspectives, this study investigates the relationship between servitization and the survival of new manufacturing ventures that are engaging in global markets. In addition, it further explores whether the pre-internationalization preparation and post-internationalization experience can moderate the servitization-survival relationship from the perspectives of costs, resources, and capabilities developed in different stages. Our findings support the view that, in the context of international markets, new manufacturing ventures are more vulnerable to risk and the additional costs of servitization coupled with the uncertainty of international markets. Later entry into foreign markets and greater international experience enable manufacturing ventures to resist the hazards associated with servitization and the process of internationalization. In doing so, we contribute to an understanding of the service paradox by adopting a dynamic and processual view of internationalization.

Fostering Early English Education in Saudi Arabia: A Pathway to Achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals in Education

English language education has become increasingly vital in non-English-speaking countries, driven by globalization and the demands of the international economy. In Saudi Arabia, enhancing English proficiency is one of the most important aspects of educational reform emphasized by Vision 2030. This study examines the perceptions of 420 kindergarten and elementary school teachers, Saudi Arabia, regarding early English education for young learners aged 4 to 8. Using a structured questionnaire, the study reveals strong support among teachers for early English instruction, with 77% agreeing that every child should master at least one foreign language. Additionally, 86% of respondents believe that English should be introduced in primary school to establish a solid foundation for language mastery. Multiple regression analysis identified significant predictors of teacher support, such as teaching experience, educational qualifications, and regional location. Teachers with more experience and higher qualifications were more supportive of early English education, with greater support seen in urbanized areas. The findings also highlight the significance of English proficiency in the context of economic globalization. A total of 88% of teachers recognize that English is necessary for global communication and competitiveness. The study concludes that teacher perceptions align with the goals of Vision 2030, highlighting the strategic importance of early English education in Saudi Arabia's educational reforms. It further highlights the need for ongoing professional development for teachers and increased parental involvement to ensure the positive implementation of early English programs. These insights are critical for informing educational policies and practices that support Saudi Arabia's broader socio-economic objectives.

Artificial Intelligence in Morocco: Towards Holistic, Responsible and Ethical National AI Strategy for Moroccan Competitiveness and Strategic Intelligence

This paper analyses current achievements and emerging landscape of artificial intelligence in Morocco. It explores also the various challenges and opportunities related to the development of an AI ecosystem that facilitates the emergence of an agile, holistic, responsible, ethical, and forward-looking national artificial intelligence strategy that supports Morocco's global competitiveness and its strategic intelligence. Based on a methodological triangulation approach, we combined a documentary approach focused on a literature reviews and international benchmarks of national AI policies and strategies. In addition, we have proposed a conceptual model that outlines the essential elements and key enablers and drivers of the national AI strategy for Morocco. We have called it “LAFBAH AI Framework” focusing on Leadership & Vision, Adaptive Governance, Forward-thinking, Breakthrough Innovations, Agility in Implementation, and Human centred approach. This model is predictive and prescriptive, and most importantly, aligned with the Moroccan priorities and strategic orientations of Morocco’s New Development Model. The study's findings show that Morocco possesses strategic assets that can help it establish itself as an AI hub for Africa and bolster its leadership and digital influence. These assets mainly include the country's international commitment to AI, its participation in AI cooperation programs, a dynamic creation of institutions and university centres dedicated to AI and the start of a virtuous public and political dialogue on the subject involving the private sector, academia and civil society.Our research argues in favour of a holistic and integrated approach to AI in Morocco, which combines AI Governance with technological innovation, ethical and societal considerations to promote sustainable and inclusive development and enhance Moroccan competitiveness. It also demonstrates the urgent need to design and ensure the implementation of an innovative, adapted and integrated national AI strategy for Morocco. This national AI strategy should be designed as an integrative, agile, dynamic framework with a clear and integrated vision, ambitious strategic objectives, relevant priorities and choices and key pillars of AI such as responsible, ethical and innovative governance and strong ecosystem enablers, collaborative research and development, AI talent and skills, sufficient data and infrastructure.We have also designed the fundamental and necessary milestones for a new ecosystem of artificial intelligence in Morocco focused on the imperatives of the knowledge society, the digital, health, food and energy sovereignties of the country, while aspiring to be a hub of artificial intelligence in Africa.

Varieties of Digital Capitalism and the US–China Rivalry: The Rise of Competing Technological Spheres

The rise of China as a global high-tech nation is challenging US hegemony. While US tech companies like Alphabet, Amazon, and Microsoft have expanded globally and have integrated most world regions into US-led digital capitalism, China has developed its own variety of digital capitalism. Shielded by the ‘Great Firewall’, Chinese corporations such as Alibaba, Huawei, and Tencent have emerged as innovative high-tech companies. Instead of relying on a US-style liberal-internationalized mode of governance, China’s state-managed digital capitalism was domestic market-based. However, since the mid-2010s, Chinese tech companies have emerged as global competitors. In response, both Trump and Biden administrations enacted sanctions and investment controls to ban Chinese companies from the US market while pressuring their allies to follow suit. In this article, we argue that beyond the development of distinct US and Chinese varieties of digital capitalism, two separate digital technological spheres are emerging. After examining these distinct varieties of digital capitalism, it will be investigated how the US have weaponized institutional differences to sanction Chinese digital companies. In a third step, the emergence of a US and Chinese digital technological sphere will be analyzed, with a focus on 5G network equipment.

Beyond Competitiveness: Is Productivity Everything?

ABSTRACTThis study examines and compares the predictive power of competitiveness, approximated by the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI), and productivity for economic growth. Using a panel dataset of 62 countries over the period 2007–2019 and the local projections (LP) approach, we find that both higher productivity and higher GCI contribute to higher economic growth over the next 5 years. However, productivity has a stronger predictive power for economic growth than the GCI. We find evidence that this divergence between productivity and GCI could be explained by ‘productivity beyond competitiveness’: As economies develop and converge towards the world technological frontier, the GCI, unlike productivity, no longer captures the key determinants of economic growth. We then examine the determinants of ‘productivity beyond competitiveness’ that can help economies increase their productivity, and by extension growth, even as they approach the technological frontier. We find that higher financial development, institutional quality, as well as some cultural traits explain the divergence between productivity and competitiveness in advanced economies.

Internalization and Internationalization: Perspectives from Higher Education Institutions in Timor-Leste

The internationalization of higher education has emerged as a transformative strategy for institutions seeking to enhance educational quality, foster global competitiveness, and promote cultural diversity. This paper provides a comprehensive review of current literature on internalization, internationalization, examining its motivations, realities, and multifaceted impacts across diverse educational contexts. It explores the evolution of internationalization strategies, encompassing curriculum development, student and faculty mobility, research collaborations, and institutional partnerships. The paper analyzes regional perspectives and global trends, highlighting the dynamic interplay between internationalization and institutional sustainability. By synthesizing empirical research and theoretical insights, it offers a nuanced understanding of how internalization and internationalization reshapes higher education landscapes and prepares institutions to meet the challenges of a globalized world.

Strategic policy options to improve quality and productivity of biomedical research.

Emerging societal expectations from biomedical research and intensifying international scientific competition are becoming existential matters. Based on a review of pertinent evidence, this article analyzes challenges and formulates public policy recommendations for improving productivity and impact of life sciences. Critical risks include widespread quality defects of research, particularly non-reproducible results, and narrow access to scientifically sound information giving advantage to health misinformation. In funding life sciences, the simultaneous shift to nondemocratic societies is an added challenge. Simply spending more on research will not be enough in the global competition. Considering the pacesetter role of the federal government, five national policy recommendations are put forward: (i) funding projects with comprehensive expectations of reproducibility; (ii) public-private partnerships for contemporaneous quality support in laboratories; (iii) making research institutions accountable for quality control; (iv) supporting new quality filtering standards for scientific journals and repositories, and (v) establishing a new network of centers for scientific health communications.

Tensile, flexural and fatigue response of lightweight pumice-reinforced magnesium composite: Experimentation followed by an analytical modelling

Abstract Featherweight material to sustain mountainous loads is an extreme contrast. Still, in reality, the automobile and aerospace industries seek very light materials with high specific strength to survive in global competition. This study offers a timely answer to the problems faced by those sectors. Through the use of a stir-assisted squeeze casting method, the current investigation aims to generate a lightweight magnesium composite that is reinforced with porous low-density pumice particles at weight percentages of 5, 10, and 15 per cent. An examination of the density indicates that there is a downward tendency in conjunction with the growing reinforcement. In comparison to the magnesium alloy in its natural state, the Pumice 15 coupon achieves a tensile strength increment of 47%, flexural strength increment of 35% and a 10-times increment in service cycle at fatigue increase. The micromechanics model is implemented to justify the strengthening process in terms of the adhesion between the filler matrix and the interface shear strength. The property plots that were drafted provide evidence that the suggested material is lightweight while exhibiting a significant amount of strength in tensile, flexural and fatigue. Post-fracture surface morphology analysis exhibits distinct tensile, flexural and fatigue patterns.

Analisis Peran Media Sosial Dalam Meningkatkan Branding Wisata Jolotundo Glamping And Edu Park Nganjuk

This research aims to analyze the role of social media in enhancing the branding of Jolotundo Glamping and Edupark Nganjuk. The main challenges in improving tourism branding include competition with other destinations, the growth of global connectivity, information technology, and competition among destinations. These factors require effective marketing strategies. Additionally, changes in consumer trends and technology can affect the effectiveness of social media strategies. Social media has significant power in reaching a broad audience and influencing public perception of a destination. In the context of tourism, social media plays a crucial role in increasing widespread popularity and building a positive image of this destination. The data collection techniques used in this research include observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis is conducted using qualitative descriptive methods. The research findings show that social media can enhance the branding of Jolotundo Glamping and Edupark through the planning of forming a special social media team, selecting social media platforms, and engaging third parties. The implementation involves having a dedicated social media team, choosing Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and collaborating with third parties such as Niken Salindri and Woko Chanel. The impact of social media includes an increase in the number of tourists, a rise in social media engagement, and an increase in the diversity of visitor origins.

THREE GEOPOLITICAL SCENARIOS WITH GLOBAL IMPACT

Although it seems chaotic, the international environment is shaped by predictable forces, nurtured by interest and lust for power and domination. However, sometimes, as Nassim Nicholas Taleb pointed out, "black swans" can happen, meaning events that come as a total surprise and have a major effect. This article refers to three predictable geopolitical developments with significant impact on the global power competition, namely: the re-election of Donald J. Trump as US President; Chinese global financial initiative, including a new Asian bloc currency and a new gold/currency benchmark; and the extension of the asymmetric war between Israel and HAMAS. Three foreseeable geopolitical dynamics, which can however be influenced by chance (“black swans”). The study is linear, starting with the hypotheses, continuing with data collection, data analysis and synthesis and ending with conclusions. The research methods belong to geopolitics and combine data analysis and synthesis with inductive-deductive and ambispective methods. The data used are exclusively from open sources and include official documents, literature and journalistic sources.

The Current Situation, Issues, and Improvement Measures of Foreign Direct Investment in China's Agricultural Economy

With the rapid development of economic globalization, the connections between countries have become increasingly close, and foreign direct investment has gradually become an important factor influencing the agricultural economic development of various countries. In order to achieve their own economic development, countries have actively sought to attract foreign investment. With China’s accession to the World Trade Organization and its active participation in global governance, attracting and utilizing foreign investment for domestic agriculture has become a strategic consensus for economic development amid intense global economic competition. This paper analyzes the history and current situation of foreign direct investment in Chinese agriculture, identifies the main issues faced by Chinese agriculture in utilizing foreign direct investment, and proposes corresponding solutions, including improving the foreign direct investment environment in Chinese agriculture and optimizing the structure of foreign direct investment sources.

Cyclical Inclusive Growth Model of the European Union

This article analyzes the distinctive features of the contemporary cyclical inclusive growth model within the European Union (EU). As an integration entity, the EU contends with a series of internal challenges that impede its development, arising from the divergent economic interests of member states and the uneven distribution of the costs and benefits of the 'twin transition' in the context of Europe’s declining global competitiveness. Exploring the nuances of inclusive growth in the EU, particularly the role of citizen participation in societal progress, offers a valuable framework for understanding the social and economic contradictions both within and between member states. The study commences with a critical review of existing definitions of inclusive growth, laying the groundwork for an in-depth analysis of the EU model.The research employs quantitative methods to compare EU member states using the UNCTAD Inclusive Growth Index and additional indicators of social and economic development and well-being. It also evaluates the outcomes of the 'Europe 2020' strategy, which aimed to establish inclusive growth targets for the EU by 2020. The findings reveal that the highest levels of inclusive growth are concentrated in northern and continental European countries, whereas Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) exhibit significantly lower levels. The analysis further uncovers key contradictions, such as the tension between reducing socio-economic inequality and promoting economic growth, the generational conflict over the ‘green economy,’ and the misalignment of interests between smaller and larger EU economies.Despite the initiatives under the 'Europe 2020' strategy, the study observes a shift in the priorities of EU citizens concerning inclusive growth. The research identifies fundamental characteristics of the EU's inclusive growth model, marked by a cycle of emerging and resolving social and economic contradictions at the Union level. A notable aspect of this model is the increasing complexity and multiplicity of contradictions, alongside a growing emphasis on subjective well-being and the fulfillment of intangible individual needs. The insights derived from this analysis have practical implications for developing inclusive growth support measures within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and can aid in defining priorities and mechanisms for the social and economic policies of EAEU member states.

Addressing the Global Logistics Performance Index Rankings with Methodological Insights and an Innovative Decision Support Framework

This study examines the Logistics Performance Index (LPI) rankings developed by the World Bank from a methodological perspective and proposes an alternative decision support framework. LPI serves as an interactive tool that helps countries identify challenges, innovative solutions, and opportunities in their trade and logistics sectors. In this study, the efficiency of logistics operations in 118 countries was evaluated using an integrated multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model objectively weighted by the Entropy method. Countries were ranked using the MCRAT, SAW, TOPSIS, and FUCA methods. According to the findings, large datasets provide more robust insights for sensitivity analyses, and wider weighting coefficient combinations make the data more meaningful. In addition, it is suggested to use low-compensation methods instead of classical additive methods for LPI. Unlike other studies in literature, this research applied an innovative sensitivity analysis to test the robustness of the model and comprehensively examined the effects of weighting techniques based on over 2500 different MCDM results. The findings suggest that the FUCA method should be recommended to decision-makers for calculating LPI rankings due to its simplicity, practicality, low compensatory power, and low sensitivity. This study offers methodological improvements when evaluating logistics performance and provides significant contributions to decision-making processes. The findings are expected to provide a valuable resource for policymakers and businesses in understanding a country’s position in global competition, as well as serving as a reference for researchers evaluating the logistics performance of countries.

Effective practice of innovative leadership with constant changes in social and cultural norms in China

ABSTRACT Maintaining competitiveness is crucial for firms to survive with increasing global competition. One of the key elements for maintaining competitiveness is the development of innovative leadership. The dynamic business operations of firms require leadership capabilities in general, and innovative leadership capabilities in particular, for achieving long-term survivability. This research adopts a holistic approach to investigate multiple factors that influence firm innovation through the effective practice of innovative leadership with constant changes in social and cultural norms in China. We have based our research on observations of three case studies in China and in-depth interviews conducted with key informants. This study contributes to redefining innovative leaders and innovative leadership. We illustrate the contextual factors that influence the adoption and practices of innovative leadership. We also identify crucial aspects of the quality of leaders and the engagement between leaders and subordinates that determine the outcomes of implementing innovative leadership. These aspects influence firms’ innovative capabilities and the effective practice of innovative leadership in the transitional economy of contemporary China.

Challenges and Strategies in Protecting Single-Colour Trademarks within the Fashion Industry

This paper examines the complexities of registering and protecting single-colour trademarks within the fashion industry, with a special focus on high-profile cases such as Christian Louboutin's iconic red soles. It investigates the unique legal challenges faced by brands in establishing trademark protection for colours, which lack inherent distinctiveness but can acquire significant brand identity through secondary meaning. Through a detailed examination of various international court cases, the study reveals how judicial systems manage to uphold the integrity of distinctive brand elements while fostering a fair and competitive market environment. Additionally, this research discusses strategic approaches that brands can adopt to effectively secure and defend their unique colour trademarks in diverse legal jurisdictions. The findings shed light on the dynamic evolution of trademark law, underscore the significant impact of judicial decisions on brand protection strategies, and explore the broader implications these have on global market competition. By integrating theoretical frameworks with case study analysis, this paper provides valuable insights into the intersection of law, commerce, and brand identity in the global fashion industry.

Gender diversity in top management team and corporate social responsibility performance: examining the moderating nature of TMT international experience

Purpose This study is based on the role congruity theory that examines the association between top management team (TMT) gender diversity and corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance. Design/methodology/approach This study uses data from the Taiwan Economic Journal database and the Market Observation Post System provided by the Taiwan Stock Exchange. The sample consists of 4,140 annual observations of Taiwanese-listed companies in the electronics industry from 2016–2020. Findings The results revealed that TMT gender diversity is positively associated with CSR performance, and TMT international experience strengthens the positive association between TMT gender diversity and CSR performance. Practical implications CSR is imperative. The TMT’s gender diversity aligns with current environmental trends and social expectations, driven for CSR implementation essential. This diverse configuration enables the TMTs to address corporate adaptability and maintain global competitiveness. Originality/value The findings contribute significantly to the literature on TMT gender diversity by extending the application of role congruity theory beyond individual to team-level contexts and across gender boundaries. By incorporating diverse capabilities such as international experience within TMTs, the authors identify key boundary conditions that foster CSR. This expansion not only aligns with practical realities but also opens new avenues for research into the dynamics of diverse management teams.

The Impact of Innovation on the Growth of Economic Competitiveness in Uzbekistan

In an era of rapid technological advancement and global market integration, innovation has become a critical driver of economic competitiveness. This paper explores the impact of innovation on the growth of economic competitiveness in Uzbekistan, a country strategically positioned in Central Asia with significant economic potential. The study reviews existing literature, government reports, and industry analyses to understand how innovative practices contribute to enhancing productivity, market expansion, and overall economic resilience. Data were collected from peer-reviewed academic databases, including Scopus, Emerald and Web of Science, as well as from government and international organization reports. The findings indicate that while Uzbekistan has made considerable progress in fostering innovation, several challenges, including economic and institutional barriers, reliance on fossil fuels, and gaps in technical expertise, persist. The paper offers strategic recommendations to address these challenges, emphasizing the importance of increased R&D investments, diversification of energy sources, building technical capacity, strengthening the regulatory framework, and promoting international collaboration. These measures are essential for leveraging innovation to achieve sustainable economic growth and improve Uzbekistan’s global competitiveness.

THE RELATIONSHIP OF STATE INVESTMENTS IN THE SECTOR OF ССI AND THE LEVEL OF COMPETITIVENESS OF THE ECONOMY

The article examines the relationship between public investment in the creative and cultural industries (CCI) sector and the level of competitiveness of the national economy. This study examines the influence of state-sponsored initiatives, including innovative projects, cultural programmes and creative start-ups, on a country's global economic competitiveness. It is established that investments in the cultural and creative industries have a dual impact on the national economy. Firstly, they facilitate the development of the cultural and educational spheres. Secondly, they have a significant impact on GDP growth, job creation, increase in export potential and attraction of foreign investment. Particular attention is paid to the mechanisms of interaction between the public and private sectors for the effective implementation of investment programmes in the field of CCI. The article examines the various financing models and institutional approaches that can ensure the sustainable development of creative industries. A substantial portion of the study is dedicated to an examination of international experiences with regard to investment in cultural and creative industries. In particular, the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the countries known as the "Asian Tigers" are taken as case studies. Based on a comparative analysis of these cases, the most effective instruments for supporting investments in the CCI sector and their impact on the competitiveness of national economies are identified.

International Student Mobility: Pushing-Pulling Factors for International Students

International student mobility (ISM) has been considered as a key factor for many higher education institutions (HEIs) in terms of benefits that it generates. Recent literature highlights the influence of ISM in the reconfiguration of the form of educational system making it more competitive and attractive for international students. In this regard, students are paying attention to the opportunities and benefits that an international student mobility programme, such as the Erasmus programme offers. Nevertheless, it is important to take in consideration challenges and barriers that international students have to cope during their study experience abroad. The aim of this study is to analyse which are the pushing and pulling factors for international students when choosing a country as the abroad study destination. An online survey is used to Albanian international students that has previously experienced ISM programme and are currently experiencing ISM programme abroad. Findings offer important insights on understanding factors that impact international students’ decision when choosing a foreign country as a study destination. This study offers contribution in enriching the existent literature on ISM and in particular on the decision-making of international students from a developing country perspective. The study’s implications suggest that higher education institutions can boost their global attractiveness and competitiveness by addressing the key factors influencing international students’ decisions, as identified in this study. Received: 20 July 2024 / Accepted: 20 September 2024 / Published: 05 November 2024